Virtual Pay Station (VPS)

Parking at the Northern Beaches just got significantly easier for those who prefer to skip the App Store or Google Play. This new "virtual meter" system offers a streamlined alternative to traditional physical meters and the standard EasyPark app, specifically designed for one-off users and visitors.

 

How It Works: No App, No Account, No Friction

The Virtual Pay Station is a physical box attached to parking poles (The grey with pink and purple colours). Instead of inserting coins or downloading software or a mobile application, users simply interact with the panel using their smartphones.

  • Tap to Pay: Ensure your phone is "awake" (lock screen or home screen) and hold it against the panel's NFC chip for 2-3 seconds.

  • Web-Based Checkout: The tap automatically opens a secure URL on your phone's browser.

  • Minimal Data: You only need to enter a valid email address, your vehicle registration (rego), and credit card details for a once-off session.

Benefits for the Modern Parker

This "EasyPark Lite" experience is ideal for users who want the benefits of digital payment without the commitment of a full account.

  • Instant Access: There is no need to wait for an app to download or to manage another password.

  • Automatic Detection: The VPS chip has a built-in area code, so the system automatically knows exactly where you are parked the moment you tap.

Customers guidelines: 

1. What is the Virtual Pay Station, and do I need an app?

The VPS is an app-free way to pay for parking via a website on your phone. You do not need to download the EasyPark app or create a permanent account; it functions as a "guest checkout" for a single parking session.

2. Why should I use the VPS instead of a physical meter?

The VPS provides a secure, contactless way to pay directly from your phone's browser using digital payment methods. It also links your payment directly to your license plate in the Ranger's database, meaning no paper tickets are required on your dashboard.

3. When does my session end, and can I extend it?

Your session ends at the time selected during checkout. Note: Unlike the full app, the VPS does not send expiry notifications. To extend your parking, you must return to the physical VPS box and tap your phone again to start a new transaction.

4. Where is my proof of payment stored?

Your receipt is sent instantly to the email address provided during checkout. Because the system is "Pay-by-Plate," your registration is updated in real-time for enforcement officers. 

However, Payment processing occurs overnight, so you may not see the charge on your bank statement until the following day.